Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s latest foreign trip, questioning the government’s priorities as Nigerians continue to face insecurity and economic challenges.
Obi raised the concerns in a statement shared on his official social media page on Monday, following Tinubu’s departure from Nigeria for another three-week holiday in Europe. He argued that the timing of the trip was difficult to justify given the challenges confronting citizens across the country.
The former Anambra State governor also drew attention to reports that about 600 people, mostly women, children and elderly residents, were abducted during Juma’at prayers in Niger State. He said such reports underscored the need for greater attention to the country’s security situation.
Obi also cited figures on presidential travel expenses, claiming that government spending on presidential trips and related costs between June 2023 and April 2026 reached about ₦37.64 billion. He further claimed that Tinubu spent approximately 261 days outside Nigeria during the period.
The NDC candidate questioned whether such spending reflected the priorities Nigerians expect from their government, particularly at a time when key sectors are facing serious funding challenges. He pointed to healthcare as an example, claiming that only ₦36 million was released to the Federal Ministry of Health in 2025 despite a capital allocation of ₦218 billion.
“Leadership is about priorities,” Obi said, arguing that greater attention should be directed towards insecurity, healthcare, education and the economic pressures affecting households and businesses.
Beyond criticising foreign travel, Obi urged the President to promote domestic tourism by visiting attractions and destinations within Nigeria. He argued that stronger domestic tourism could create jobs and boost businesses in hospitality, transportation, agriculture and entertainment.
“We deserve leadership that puts Nigeria first, leadership that cares and plans for a better Nigeria,” Obi said. He added that this was the type of leadership he and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, would seek to provide through their political partnership.
